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Choosing a college major is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your academic journey. For international students, this decision can feel even more significant as it shapes your career and life opportunities in a new country. Whether you’re just getting started or still unsure about your path, understanding how to choose a major with confidence is key.
In this blog, we’ll explore 15 practical tips for selecting a college major, from evaluating your interests and career goals to avoiding common mistakes. You’ll also learn when to declare your major, whether changing your major is an option, and how to make this decision work for your future success.
Table of Contents
Why are college majors important?
15 considerations when choosing a college major
What mistakes to avoid when choosing a major
When do you declare your college major?
When should you declare minors or a double major in college?
Can you design your own college major?
What is a major?
A major is the primary field of study that defines the focus of your academic journey at a university or college. It represents the area in which you will gain in-depth knowledge and expertise through specialized courses, alongside a broader curriculum that develops critical thinking and transferable skills.
Choosing a major allows you to align your education with your interests, strengths, and future career aspirations, as it often determines the career paths or further study opportunities available after graduation.
Why are college majors important?
Choosing a college major is a critical decision for students, as it directly shapes your academic experience and career opportunities.
Your major determines the subjects you'll explore in-depth, equipping you with specialized skills and knowledge that align with your future goals. It serves as a foundation for building expertise in your chosen field, enhancing your employability and professional growth.
Additionally, selecting the right major can provide clarity and focus, helping to streamline your path toward internships, networking opportunities, and graduate studies.
15 considerations when choosing a college major
Here, we look at 15 essential considerations to guide you toward the perfect college major, ensuring a decision that aligns with your passions, strengths, and long-term goals.
1. Career preparation
Start by thinking long-term. Does the major you’re considering pave the way for the career you want?
- Many fields, such as medicine or engineering, have specific degree requirements for entry-level jobs.
- For others, like marketing or business, career success often depends more on skills gained through internships or hands-on projects.
2. Do your research
Knowledge is power—and the more you know, the better your decision will be. Research course structures, job opportunities, and potential challenges for each major on your list.
- Visit university websites to learn more about the subjects covered.
- Look up industry growth statistics to understand future demand.
For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare and technology fields are expected to experience significant growth in the next decade.
3. Consider your interests
What are you passionate about? Success is much easier when your studies align with your interests.
- If you’re an avid reader and love analyzing literature, English or creative writing may be great options.
- If solving puzzles excites you, majors like computer science or mathematics might be a better fit.
Remember, college is an investment of your time and money—it’s worth pursuing something you enjoy.
4. Consider what you’re good at
Interests are important, but you should also evaluate your strengths. Are you good at math? Do you thrive in creative work?
- Reflect on your academic history to identify subjects where you performed well.
- Consider skills like problem-solving, communication, or leadership.
Choosing a major that leverages your natural talents often increases your chance of success.
5. Assess costs and salary expectations
Education is an investment, so make sure it makes financial sense. Some factors to evaluate include:
- Tuition costs for your chosen major.
- Salary potential in the field post-graduation.
For instance, STEM and business-related fields often result in higher starting salaries, while creative fields can be more varied in terms of their earning potential.
6. Consult with your advisor
Advisors are a wealth of information. They can assist you with everything from understanding how different majors apply to future jobs to which programs fit your interests.
- Schedule regular meetings with your academic advising team to explore your options.
- Bring a list of questions to make the most of each appointment.
7. Meet with professors
Professors aren't just educators—they're experts in their fields.
- Reach out to professors teaching courses in the majors you’re considering.
- Ask them about course content, research opportunities, and potential career paths.
They can provide valuable insights about the realities of succeeding in the field.
8. Speak with friends and family
Sometimes, the people who know you best have valuable perspectives.
- Discuss your goals with friends or family to gather opinions.
- While it’s important to prioritize your interests, listening to diverse viewpoints can spark new ideas.
9. Take a career assessment
If you’re unsure, a career assessment tool can help you identify potential fields that align with your personality and strengths.
- Some common tests include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and O*NET Interest Profiler.
- Many universities also provide free career assessment services for students.
10. Understand the weekly workload
Each major has its own pace and workload. Some, like engineering, may require long hours in labs, while others, like liberal arts, involve intensive reading and writing.
- Consider whether you’re comfortable with the time commitment your preferred major demands.
Managing expectations is key to academic and personal success.
11. Get involved
Participating in campus clubs or organizations related to your interests is a great way to test the waters.
- For example, if marketing interests you, join the university’s business club.
- Networking in such environments exposes you to professionals and peers who can guide your path.
12. Take additional courses
Not ready to commit? Enroll in a few introductory courses in different fields.
- Many universities allow you to take electives that count toward your degree requirements regardless of your final major.
- Testing out different subjects lets you discover what clicks.
13. Consider general education requirements
Keep in mind that your academic progress will involve general education courses, which often include subjects like math, science, or humanities.
- Does your chosen major allow for flexibility with these requirements?
- How many credits will transfer if you switch majors later?
14. Take some time off
Feeling stuck? You could always consider taking a gap year. Many students benefit from some time away from studies to better understand their goals.
- Use the time to travel, intern, or volunteer in areas that interest you.
- This approach offers a unique perspective before you commit to a major.
15. Don’t rush
Lastly, don’t pressure yourself to decide immediately. Many students start college undecided and take a year or two before declaring their major.
- The first year is often full of foundational courses, and taking your time to choose won’t set you back.
Remember, the goal is to pick the major that suits you—not anyone else.
What mistakes to avoid when choosing a major
Some students make avoidable mistakes when selecting their major, leading to wasted time, money, and effort. Here, we look at five common mistakes—and how to dodge them—so you can confidently choose a major that aligns with your goals and passions.
Mistake 1: Ignoring your interests and strengths
A major might seem impressive on paper, but does it align with your genuine interests and strengths? Some students choose areas of study based on external pressure or perceived prestige, only to find themselves struggling with the coursework or losing interest over time.
Why it’s a problem
If you choose a field that you don’t enjoy, chances are you’ll be less motivated to study and may perform poorly in your classes. This not only affects your grades but also impacts your overall college experience.
Choosing a major aligned with your areas of interest and strengths will make learning engaging and rewarding, setting you up for long-term success.
Mistake 2: Prioritizing financial prospects over passion
It’s natural to want financial stability, and some students choose high-earning fields like medicine, engineering, or finance purely for their salary potential. But this decision often overlooks the importance of passion and job satisfaction.
Why it’s a problem
You might commit years to studying a particular major that you don’t really enjoy, only to burn out in your career later.
Remember, success isn’t just measured in dollars—it’s also about career fulfilment.
Mistake 3: Following friends or family expectations
It’s common for international students to feel pressure from family or friends when choosing their major. Whether it’s a parent suggesting you become an engineer or a friend convincing you to try their field, outside influence can cloud your decision.
Why it’s a problem
Your college major should reflect your goals, not someone else’s. Following someone else’s path can lead to resentment or unhappiness when you realize the major doesn’t suit you.
This is your future—it’s crucial that’s it your own major.
Mistake 4: Overlooking career opportunities
While passion is important, it’s also essential to think practically about your major’s career prospects. Certain fields, while interesting, might have limited job opportunities, especially in the country where you intend to work after graduation.
Why it’s a problem
Pursuing a specific major without understanding its job market can leave you struggling to find employment post-graduation. For international students, this challenge becomes even more pressing if visa sponsorships or work permits are required.
- Understand how your major aligns with in-demand careers in your desired country. Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or equivalent local databases provide reliable data on job growth and demand.
- If a field you love has limited opportunities, explore complementary majors or minors (e.g., pairing environmental studies with business administration).
- Seek schools with strong internship opportunities in your field to gain experience and professional connections while studying.
Balancing passion with practical outcomes can ensure you’re not only happy with your studies but also prepared for the future.
Mistake 5: Forgetting about transferable skills
Some students assume their chosen major locks them into a specific career for life. This mindset can make picking a major seem intimidating rather than an exciting opportunity for growth.
Why it’s a problem
This rigid thinking doesn’t reflect the modern job market. According to LinkedIn, people change jobs 11+ times over their careers, often pivoting to new industries entirely. Focusing too narrowly may mean missing out on opportunities to develop versatile skills that apply across industries.
Choosing majors with flexibility, such as business, communications, and computer science will teach skills that are valuable in multiple industries.
Build soft skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills can go a long way, regardless of your major. Look for courses or extracurricular activities that enhance these transferable abilities.
When do you declare your college major?
Deciding when to declare your college major is an important step in your academic and career journey. Most bachelor's degree programs allow college students to declare their major by the end of their sophomore year. However, it’s crucial to start exploring your interests and career goals as early as high school to make informed decisions.
For international students, understanding the process may vary depending on your institution and field of study, so researching options and consulting your academic advisors is important. Declaring your major at the right time ensures you stay on track toward graduation while aligning your studies with your long-term career aspirations.
When should you declare minors or a double major in college?
Typically, most universities allow students to declare minors or additional majors during their sophomore (second) or junior (third) year. This gives you time to explore different fields of study and meet any prerequisites required for your chosen programs. Adding a minor or a second major can enhance your resume and expand your knowledge, but it’s important to consider the additional workload, and potential costs, for example.
Before making a decision, consult your academic advisor to fully understand the requirements and how this choice might fit into your long-term career plans.
Can you design your own college major?
Yes, at some colleges and universities, you can design your own college major to create a customized academic pathway that aligns with your unique interests and career goals. This option is often referred to as an "interdisciplinary" or "individualized" major, allowing you to combine courses from multiple disciplines into a cohesive program.
Institutions offering this option typically require students to work closely with academic advisors to develop a clear proposal, outlining their intended curriculum and how it meets educational objectives. For international students, this can be a fantastic opportunity to tailor their education to global career aspirations or niche fields of study that might not be available as standalone majors.
Can you change your mind?
The college experience presents an incredible opportunity for students to explore new interests and uncover passions they never knew you had, which can sometimes lead to them changing their major. But here's something to keep in mind when choosing or changing your major:
- Every major comes with specific required courses.
- Some majors might need you to complete introductory classes before moving on to advanced ones.
- Certain courses are only available in the fall or spring, so timing matters.
If you decide to change your major later on, it could take a bit longer than the usual four years to finish your degree.
Start your college journey today!
We hope that this article has offered some useful advice for those international students currently studying in the USA, or hoping to in the future.
International study programmes with Kings
- Through our Guaranteed Outcome programs in the US, students begin a bachelor’s degree at one of our partner universities in Boston, New York, California, Oregon and Wisconsin. After 2 years they are then able to transfer to a Top 50 or Top 100 university, from where they will graduate. Our expert advisors will guide each and every student through the entire transfer process from target university identification, course selection to transfer university applications.
- We also offer semester abroad programs (in Boston, California, New York and Oregon), for those who would like to experience American College life without taking a full degree.
- For those who require English preparation, we also offer a range of English language programs, from general English tuition to exam preparation courses and specialist English for career success.
If you would like more information about programmes with Kings in the UK or USA, you can send us a message using the Live Chat or Enquiry Form.
Alternatively, you can send us an email enquiries@kingseducation.com
